Learning Center

3 minutes read

Granite Harbor Advisors Welcomes Derek Taylor to Lead New Private Markets Vertical

Granite Harbor Advisors FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE October 8, 2025 Granite Harbor Advisors Welcomes Derek Taylor to Lead New Private Markets Vertical Houston, Texas — Wednesday, October 8, 2025 — Granite Harbor Advisors, an independent Registered Investment Adviser with more than $600 million in assets under management, today announced the appointment of Derek Taylor as Managing Partner to launch Granite…

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5 minutes read

Buy-Sell Agreements: Which Structure is Best for You?

Contributed by: Austin Manning, CFP® Business owners who have invested years of effort into building successful enterprises eventually face a difficult but essential question: what happens to the business when an owner departs, retires, or passes away? The answer often lies in a well-crafted buy-sell agreement. These agreements establish a clear plan for the transfer of ownership and can prevent disputes,…

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6 minutes read

Maximizing Year-End Giving: Key Cut-Off Dates for DAFs

Contributed by: Timothy Smith, CFP® As the year draws to a close, many families and business owners take time to reflect on their values and how they can make a meaningful impact through charitable giving. For those with Donor-Advised Funds (DAFs), this season presents a valuable opportunity—not only to support important causes but also to optimize tax efficiency before year-end deadlines arrive. Yet,…

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6 minutes read

The Hidden Risks of Entrepreneurship for High-Net-Worth Individuals

Contributed by: Caleb Christian, CFP®, CLU®, ChFC® Entrepreneurship is often portrayed as the ultimate path to independence, control, and wealth creation. For many high-net-worth individuals, especially those who have built their wealth through business ownership, the rewards of entrepreneurship are clear. But what is often less acknowledged—and far less glamorized—are the persistent risks that continue…

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5 minutes read

Are Your Investments in the Right Place?

Contributed by: Nicholas Brown, CFA, CFP In wealth management conversations, the focus often lands on asset allocation, market performance, or investment selection. Yet one of the most influential drivers of long-term after-tax wealth has nothing to do with the market at all—it’s how your investment accounts are structured. Most high-income earners and affluent families hold a combination of retirement…

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3 minutes read

Understanding the Qualified Business Income Deduction

What is the Qualified Business Income Deduction? The Qualified Business Income (QBI) Deduction is a tax provision introduced under the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) of 2017. This deduction, available under Section 199A, allows eligible taxpayers to deduct up to 20% of their qualified business income from their taxable income. The purpose of this provision is to provide a tax break to small business…

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9 minutes read

Managing Your 401(k) After Job Transition: Key Considerations & Advanced Tax Strategies

What to do with Your 401(k) after Leaving a Job: Key Considerations & Advanced Tax Strategies When navigating a job transition, whether entering retirement or an unexpected layoff, one crucial aspect that requires careful consideration is what to do with your 401(k) plan. Making informed choices is of utmost importance to safeguard your financial future. By taking stock of your existing plan and…

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3 minutes read

The Tax Equation in Business Succession

Authored by: Brian Sak, CFP®, CLU®, ChFC® When it's time to transition a business, the structure of the deal matters just as much as the successor. Whether passing it to family, selling to key employees, or exiting through a third-party sale, each strategy carries its own tax implications—some immediate, others long-term. This article outlines the most common succession techniques, the tax challenges…

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3 minutes read

Navigating Rule 10b5-1 Trading Plans: A Detailed Guide

Ensuring compliance while managing personal investments is a significant challenge for senior executives and directors of public companies. Company trading policies often impose restrictions to prevent conflicts of interest and insider trading, making it difficult for executives to sell shares. However, Rule 10b5-1 trading plans offer a solution. This article provides an in-depth look at these plans,…

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6 minutes read

Understanding Restricted Stock Units: Strategic Considerations for High-Income Professionals

Contributed by: Caleb Christian, CFP®, CLU®, ChFC® For many corporate executives and key employees at oil & gas companies such as BP, Chevron, or Shell, compensation extends beyond salary and annual bonuses. Increasingly, companies are using Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) as part of long-term incentive plans. While RSUs can represent a substantial portion of total compensation, they also carry complexities—particularly…

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7 minutes read

Understanding the One Big Beautiful Bill Act: A Turning Point in Long-Term Tax Planning

Authored by: Nicholas Brown, CFA, CFP® In the ever-evolving world of tax legislation, clarity and consistency are rare luxuries. Yet that is precisely what the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (the Act) aims to deliver—a sweeping tax reform package designed to bring permanence to key provisions of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) and introduce several notable changes affecting high income earners, small…

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5 minutes read

Comprehensive Financial Planning for Executives in Their Prime

Contributed by: Tim Smith, CFP At the height of a corporate career, success often brings complexity. For executives in their prime earning years, many of whom are managing significant equity compensation, growing philanthropic interests, and contemplating long-term legacy decisions, the stakes are high. Navigating this stage without a deliberate financial strategy can lead to missed opportunities,…

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5 minutes read

Understanding Net Unrealized Appreciation (NUA) for Oil & Gas Executives 

Contributed by: Tom Kelley, MBA As an executive in the oil and gas industry, particularly for leading companies like ConocoPhillips, Exxon, or BP, strategic financial planning is essential to managing your wealth effectively. One powerful tool that may be available to you is Net Unrealized Appreciation (NUA), a tax strategy that could significantly enhance your retirement distribution plans. In this…

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4 minutes read

Navigating the Volatility of Financial Markets: Strategies for High-Net-Worth Individuals

Authored by: Austin Manning, CFP Market volatility is an unavoidable reality for investors, particularly high-net-worth individuals (HNWIs) who have substantial assets exposed to financial fluctuations. While these shifts can create unease, they also bring potential for reassessment and repositioning within a well-structured investment framework. Addressing market turbulence effectively requires a…

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5 minutes read

The Hidden Risks of DIY Investment Management for High-Net-Worth Individuals

Contributed by: Dale Shaw, CFP, RICP For high-net-worth individuals, managing investments independently might seem like a cost saving strategy. However, without professional oversight, even the most financially savvy individuals can fall into costly traps. Investment mismanagement can lead to missed opportunities, excessive risk exposure, and significant tax inefficiencies. Here’s why DIY investing…

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4 minutes read

Don’t Let Tariffs Derail Your Long-Term Strategy: What Investors Should Do Now

Authored By: Brian Sak, CFP, CLU, ChCF In early 2025, a new wave of tariff policy updates has unsettled global markets. As trade rhetoric intensifies between the United States and major economies—including China and the European Union—investors are once again contending with heightened volatility, fluctuating commodity prices, and geopolitical uncertainty. While headlines focus on the noise of tariffs…

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6 minutes read

Trades Tariffs - The Good, The Bad, & The Ugly

Authored by: Nicholas M. Brown, CFA, CFP In their 2016 book War By Other Means, Robert Blackwill and Jennifer Harris argue that the United States has historically lagged in leveraging economic tools to achieve political objectives. That same year, the country elected a president who made economic policies—particularly trade tariffs—a central pillar of his foreign policy approach. As President Trump…

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7 minutes read

Tariffs, Tightening, and Turbulence: Unpacking Market Uncertainty in the Face of Shifting Policy

Authored by: Nicholas M. Brown, CFA, CFP In recent weeks, the conversation dominating the financial headlines has centered on tariffs—and whether or not they will ultimately be implemented. Initially perceived by many as a tactical move—a bargaining chip in the administration’s broader agenda, which includes border security, trade rebalancing, and domestic manufacturing support—tariffs have quickly…

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3 minutes read

The Role of Private Equity in Business Transitions

Contributed by: Tom Kelley, MBA For many business owners, transitioning a company—whether through sale, succession, or strategic restructuring—is one of the most significant milestones of their professional and financial lives. This process often involves navigating complex decisions about legacy, value realization, and future growth. Private equity (PE) can play a critical role in facilitating these…

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4 minutes read

How to Ensure Business Continuity After Your Exit

Contributed by: Tom Kelley, MBA For many business owners, their company represents years of dedication, vision, and effort. Planning for the continuity of your business after your exit is not just about protecting your legacy; it’s about ensuring the stability of the company, the well-being of its employees, and the financial security of your family. Yet, many entrepreneurs delay this critical planning…

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4 minutes read

How to Pass on a Family Business to the Next Generation

Contributed by: Tom Kelley, MBA For many families, a business is not just a source of income; it is a legacy. Successfully passing on a family business to the next generation involves more than a handshake or an informal agreement. It requires intentional planning, strategic preparation, and a focus on preserving family harmony while ensuring the business remains strong and sustainable. At Granite…

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4 minutes read

How to Prepare Your Business for Sale: 10 Tips for Success

Contributed by: Pijus Bulvinas, CFP® and Sam Breske, Director, Affinity Ventures If you are getting ready to sell your business or believe that a sale may be on the horizon in the next several years, it is crucial to plan accordingly. Proper planning and preparation for the sale of your business can significantly impact the success and profitability of the transaction. Here are 10 steps to consider…

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4 minutes read

Valuing Your Business for Succession and Sale

Contributed by: Tom Kelley, MBA In the dynamic world of business, preparing for succession or sale demands a meticulous approach, with business valuation standing out as a critical component. Accurately valuing your business not only sets realistic expectations but also lays the foundation for a successful transition. Here, we review the importance of accurate business valuation and explore key principles…

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3 minutes read

Navigating Business Exit Planning: What Are My Options?

For business owners contemplating their next steps, understanding and evaluating exit options is crucial. This article explores the fundamentals of exit options analysis, emphasizing its significance and exploring the two primary categories for private ownership transitions: "inside" and "outside" strategies. The Essence of Exit Options Analysis Exit options analysis is not simply a checklist of potential…

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3 minutes read

Business Continuity Planning for Entrepreneurs: Securing Your Future

Contributed by: Caleb Christian, CFP®, CLU®, ChFC® In the dynamic world of entrepreneurship, the resilience of your business is just as crucial as its growth. Business continuity planning (BCP) is an essential strategy that ensures your business can weather unforeseen disruptions. For entrepreneurs and small business owners, a robust business continuity plan is not just a safeguard—it's a strategic…

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4 minutes read

Using Buy-Sell Agreements to Protect Your Business

Contributed by: Tom Kelley, MBA In the dynamic world of business, continuity and stability are paramount. Business owners often face the challenge of safeguarding their enterprise against unforeseen events that can disrupt operations. One of the most effective tools in ensuring business continuity is the buy-sell agreement. This strategic legal document is essential for protecting your business from…

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5 minutes read

You've Agreed to Sell Your Business. What's Next?

By: Brian Sak CFP®, CLU®, ChFC® Selling your business is a monumental milestone, often accompanied by a wave of emotions and critical financial decisions. For many exiting business owners, this moment represents both the culmination of years of hard work and the start of a new chapter. But what happens after you've shaken hands on the deal? In this comprehensive guide, we'll walk you through the essential…

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4 minutes read

Qualified Small Business Stock (QSBS)

Qualified Small Business Stock (QSBS) presents a significant opportunity for investors seeking to minimize tax liabilities while supporting small businesses. Established under Section 1202 of the Internal Revenue Code, QSBS offers unique tax incentives that can be highly beneficial for both entrepreneurs and investors. This article will provide an in-depth look at what QSBS is, how it functions, who…

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4 minutes read

Understanding the 83(b) Election: A Strategic Tax Move for Business Leaders

The 83(b) election is an essential tax planning strategy that can significantly impact the financial outcomes of business owners, C-suite executives, and founders. This article dives into the specifics of what an 83(b) election is, its tax implications, how it pertains to stock awards, when it should be considered, and the potential outcomes of making this election. What Is the 83(b) Election? Section…

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4 minutes read

Supreme Court's Decision in Connelly v. United States: Implications for Business Owners with Buy/Sell Agreements

On June 13, 2024, the Supreme Court delivered its decision in Connelly v. United States, a landmark case that has significant implications for business owners with entity redemption buy/sell agreements. This ruling has reshaped the landscape of estate tax calculations and necessitates careful consideration of alternative structures for buy/sell agreements and life insurance policy ownership. Below…

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8 minutes read

Navigating the Complexities of 280G Regulations in Mergers and Acquisitions

In the journey of any business, the strategic steps of mergers and acquisitions (M&A) stand as pivotal moments that can shape the company's path for years to come. For those entering this field, it's crucial to grasp that every move carries significant weight. Even a minor action can trigger a tax consequence under Section 280G of the Internal Revenue Code, impacting founders, executives, and key…

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4 minutes read

Tips for Increasing the Benefits and Tax Breaks of Health Savings Accounts (HSAs)

In the complex world of healthcare finance, one tool often stands out for its versatility and tax advantages - the Health Savings Account (HSA). HSAs are tax-advantaged medical savings accounts available to taxpayers enrolled in high-deductible health plans. But beyond being merely a savings tool, the HSA, when used strategically, can offer significant financial benefits. This guide will provide valuable…

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3 minutes read

The Corporate Transparency Act

The Corporate Transparency Act: Implications and Considerations As the clock ticks closer to January 1, 2024, businesses across the nation are preparing for the implementation of the Corporate Transparency Act (CTA). This landmark legislation aims to enhance transparency and accountability in the corporate world. Here we will discuss the main provisions of the CTA, discuss its implications for small…

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3 minutes read

Granite Harbor Advisors Expands Presence in Houston with Opening of New State-of-the-Art Office

Conveniently located in Remington Square, the new space will serve as a central educational and service hub for clients, as well as strategic partners in the community for continuing education and planning collaboration. HOUSTON, Nov. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Granite Harbor Advisors, an independent registered investment advisory firm…

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6 minutes read

Secure Your Business Legacy: The Power of Buy-Sell Agreement Planning for Business Owners

The Power of Buy-Sell Agreement Planning for Business Owners As a business owner, ensuring the long-term success and continuity of your enterprise is usually at the very top of the list of priorities. One of the essentials that can help you achieve this goal is effective buy-sell planning. This article delves into the significance of buy-sell planning for business owners and highlights the key strategies…

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7 minutes read

Understanding Your Retirement Benefits: Things to consider as a BP Executive Preparing to Retire

How do I make the most of my BP retirement benefits? As one of the most lucrative positions in the oil and gas industry, BP executives enjoy exceptional employee benefits. However, navigating these offerings can be overwhelming, even for high-level executives. From cash compensation and severance packages to stock options and bonuses, the array of benefits can be daunting to navigate—especially anticipating…

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6 minutes read

Tax-Efficient Strategies When Selling a Business

For business owners who may have worked for decades to build up their companies, deciding to sell the business can be an emotional process. But it’s also a practical one where savvy business owners need to find ways to minimize the tax implications of selling a business to benefit themselves and other stakeholders. There are a number of strategies, particularly during the planning stage and the sales…

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6 minutes read

How to Create Liquidity by Selling a Business to an ESOP

Selling a closely held business can be an incredibly complex process that requires a lot of thoughtful planning. For business owners, two challenges often come to the forefront: finding a buyer and creating a liquidity event for the business owner. Selling a business to an employee stock ownership plan (ESOP) can address both of these issues while also creating an incentive for employees. Here’s a…

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5 minutes read

Stock Compensation Strategies: How to Balance Risk and Achieve Tax Efficiency

Many corporate executives receive stock as part of their total compensation package. This not only helps align personal goals and company objectives while rewarding top talent with appreciable assets, but many executives enjoy tying their finances, in part, to their employer. They believe in their company and in their own ability to help that company grow. But as total compensation becomes skewed toward…

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4 minutes read

Rolling over your 401(K)? Consider Net Unrealized Appreciation first

At Granite Harbor Advisors, we believe in helping our clients better understand all of their options so they can make the best decision for their families. To that end, here is a more detailed look at what net unrealized appreciation is and how you can use it to advance your financial goals. What is net unrealized appreciation (NUA)? Net unrealized appreciation is simply the difference in value between…

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Building Traction Within Your Business

Our trusted business advisor and friend, Gene Roberts joins us about the importance of having structure in your business. Structure for effective accountability, and structure for efficient communication. Gene explains the basics of the Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS), and how it can transform your business.

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The First 30 Days: Safeguarding Wealth & Well-Being After Job Separation

You’re not alone. Our one-page checklist helps you prioritize the first 30 days after a job separation: severance and taxes, health coverage, unemployment benefits, retirement accounts, and equity deadlines—organized by week so nothing gets missed. Clear, steady guidance when you need it most. General information; not tax, legal, or investment advice.

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Money in Motion

As a business owner or executive, you recognize the value of hard work and have achieved success through persistence and determination. You also understand that goals are best accomplished using a team of professionals collaborating to bring fresh ideas, innovations and perspectives. When it comes to wealth planning, it’s vital to take the same collaborative approach with trusted advisors to build upon a solid foundation and achieve maximum potential.

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Succession Planning Starts Now

At Granite Harbor, we recommend business owners begin continuity and succession planning as soon as their business comes into existence. We also help business owners create and modify plans as needed, offering guidance to protect personal finances as well as the financial health of the business.

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Retirement Planning with Purpose and Confidence

Whether you are a young executive just starting to formulate a retirement strategy, approaching retirement age, or making the long-awaited transition into retirement, a trusted team of financial advisors can provide experienced and objective guidance to help keep your plans on track.

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